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With the wide variety of massage modalities being used today it’s difficult to know when you should use an oil, crème, lotion or gel. Below you’ll find a guide to which types of lubricants are best used for each modality.

Swedish Massage

Swedish massage is the most common modality and is used for relaxation purposes. An oil, creme, lotion or gel can be used during this type of massage.

Deep Tissue Massage

Deep Tissue massage is used to reach deeper layers of muscles. A lotion is the ideal lubricant to use for this type of massage as it provides the ability to work in one concentrated area. Therapro Deep Tissue Massage Lotion provides a smooth glide and absorbs quicker than typical massage lotion.

Prenatal Massage

Prenatal massage is typically performed on expecting mothers after the second trimester. An oil, crème, lotion or gel can be used for this type of massage.

Sports Massage

Sports massage is a fast, vigorous modality used to either warm up the muscles before an athletic event or relax the muscles after an event. If you are performing the massage before the event, a lotion, crème or analgesic works best. If the massage is after the event, no lubricant is necessary as the athlete’s natural perspiration provides sufficient glide.

Acupressure Massage

Acupressure massage is similar to acupuncture, however it uses deep tissue points instead of needles. Lotion is the best lubricant to use when performing this type of massage.

Aromatherapy Massage

Aromatherapy massage is the lightest of all the modalities. This modality uses essential oils which are typically mixed with carrier oils but can also be mixed with unscented lotions, crèmes and gels.

Stone Massage

Stone massage can be performed with hot stones, cold stones, or a combination of hot and cold stones. These stones are used to either warm or cool the muscles and tissues. A massage oil is the best lubricant for this type of massage.

Ashiatsu Massage

Ashiatsu massage is also known as barefoot massage. With this modality, the Massage Therapist uses bare feet to perform basic Swedish and deep tissue techniques. Crème is an ideal lubricant to use for this technique.

Chair Massage

Chair massage is typically performed in a corporate setting or street festival in order to build business. Since the client is fully clothed during this type of massage, no lubricant is necessary. The Magic Massager is a handy tool to have when performing a Chair Massage as it provides the same glide and workability that you get when using lubricants.

Reflexology Massage

Reflexology massage provides stimulation using pressure points on feet, hands and ears to affect all parts of the body through the nerves. It is best to not use any lubricants during this treatment, but a cream or lotion can be used to finish. Oil should not be used as feet and hands already have natural oils and also oil on the bottom of a client’s feet may cause them to slip and fall.

This is the most common type of massage therapy in the United States. It is also known as Swedish massage or simply massage therapy. Massage therapists use long smooth strokes, kneading, and circular movements on superficial layers of muscle using massage lotion or oil.

Swedish massage therapy can be very gentle and relaxing. If you’ve never had massage before, this is a good one to try first. To learn more, read the full article on Swedish massage.

2. Aromatherapy Massage

Aromatherapy massage is massage therapy with the addition of one or more scented plant oils called essential oils to address specific needs. The massage therapist can select oils that are relaxing, energizing, stress-reducing, balancing, etc. One of the most common essential oils used in aromatherapy massage is lavender.

Aromatherapy massage is particularly suited to stress-related conditions or conditions with an emotional component. To learn more, read the full article on aromatherapy massage.

3. Hot Stone Massage

Heated, smooth stones are placed on certain points on the body to warm and loosen tight muscles and balance energy centers in the body. The massage therapist may also hold stones and apply gentle pressure with them. The warmth is comforting. Hot stone massage is good for people who have muscle tension but prefer lighter massage. To learn more, read the full article on hot stone massage.

4. Deep Tissue Massage

Deep tissue massage targets the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue. The massage therapist uses slower strokes or friction techniques across the grain of the muscle.

Deep tissue massage is used for chronically tight or painful muscles, repetitive strain, postural problems, or recovery from injury. People often feel sore for one to two days after deep tissue massage. To learn more, read the full article on deep tissue massage.